Our Story
One afternoon in June 2007, while I was entering the gallery of my brother, Pierre Eugène ANTOINE,
known as “Papa Pierre,” who owns a shop in the city of Jérémie, I saw about six children searching
for food in a trash bin where the waste from the store was usually thrown.
They approached me and asked for money. I replied that I never give money to children in the street.
“Children belong in school. If you are hungry, your parents should be the ones asking for help in
the streets. But children must go to school.”
They immediately answered:
“Go ahead and put us in school; we won’t beg in the streets anymore.”
To test the children’s commitment, a Friday meeting was organized where they shared their life
stories. This led to regular Friday sessions with training on manners, health, and values, as well
as games and sports that included all children. During this time, Sister Hélène Mercier, inspired to
help marginalized youth, joined to support the work.
When we decided to found the school, we named it the “Saint Jean Bosco Training Center.”
Why this name?
- Training Center: These children had no education at all.
- Saint Jean Bosco: Like Saint John Bosco, we took children from the streets to support and educate them.
Centre de formation Saint Jean Bosco was registered as Canadian Charity in QC and its Founders André Trembley and Gilles Simard sadly passed away in 2023 and 2024. After the sad passing, Yvonne, David and Joseph create a new society; friend of SJB in BC to continue the legacy.
Our Founders
Sister Monica
An African nun from the Good Shepherd Congregation learned about Father Jean’s work with the children and offered her help. She contacted others, including Mr. David Lowe, and convinced him to support the school. Together, they provided assistance in several key areas, including food, books, bags uniforms, clothes and utilities. To ensure proper financial management, Sister Monica selected Otile Jean, a Haitian accountant who had previously worked with the Chalice sponsorship program. She managed the finances and prepared financial reports for Mr. David Lowe, which were relayed through Yvonne.
Father Louis-Jean Antoine
A Haitian priest born in Sassier, Jeremie, he has been the founder and director of the Saint John Bosco Center since 2007. He envisioned creating a center that would help children leave the streets and gain access to education, nutrition, and support. Father Jean named the school “Saint Jean Bosco” to continue and honor the legacy of Saint John Bosco, who dedicated his life to helping children. Later on, he invited Sister Hélène from Quebec, Sister Monica from the Good Shepherd Congregation, and Mr. Maillard to join this noble mission. Over time, many other partners recognized the importance of supporting the school, understanding that Father Jean had planted a tree that needed help to grow. Today, the school continues its mission in the city of Jérémie and currently serves 277 children.
Our Team
Clara, David & Yvonne
Mr. David Lowe, a Canadian inspired by Monica’s introduction to Saint Jean Bosco in Jérémie, visited the school with missionaries Clara and Yvonne. Moved by the mission, they made several trips to Haiti and gradually began supporting the Saint Jean Bosco Training Center by funding teacher salaries, school supplies, daily meals, medical care, Christmas gifts, and essential goods for families before school breaks.
Sister Helene & Staff Maillard
After the school was founded in 2007, all the children participated in successful summer camps. During this time, Sister Hélène Mercier of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd of Quebec learned about the work being done with street-begging children. She told Father Jean that she had always dreamed of helping marginalized youth and asked to assist. She began attending Friday meetings, supporting activities, and later became part of the staff, contributing to daily operations and providing financial support for the children. Sister Hélène left Haiti in April 2015.
Joseph Desrochers
Joseph Desrocher, a Canadian devoted to charitable work, has been a key supporter of teacher salaries, food programs, and overall school operations. After Mr. David Lowe’s visit, he traveled to Jérémie, joined the mission, and funded the construction of the school’s second floor. His generosity extends beyond Saint Jean Bosco: he has built homes for families in need, covered hospital expenses, and provided food throughout the community. His work reflects a deep love for Haiti and its most vulnerable people.
Tek4Kids
Founded by Gary Boice, Tek4Kids provides purified water and electricity, helping create a healthier educational environment. The organization continuously supports the Jérémie community, including the Saint Jean Bosco Center.
Jean Maillard Germain
To launch the school, Father Jean needed a strong principal. He met Mr. Jean Mayard Germain on a flight, and Mr. Germain agreed to join. With experience as a teacher, principal, and inspector, he greatly strengthened Saint Jean Bosco. He passed away in February 2021.
Otile Jean
Otile Jean, chosen by Sister Monica, is a Haitian accountant who had previously worked with the Chalice sponsorship program. She became an employee of Saint Jean Bosco, managing the finances and preparing reports for all funds received from partners. Otile Jean is an exemplary staff member who consistently dedicates herself to providing accurate results and strong guidance.